The Law Center: A Green 'LEEDer'

What does it mean for the University of Baltimore School of Law's new John and Frances Angelos Law Center, currently under construction on the UB campus, to have the designation "LEED platinum"? First, let’s define the term:

"LEED" is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It is an internationally recognized certification program managed by the U.S. Green Building Council. The council awards various LEED marks, including silver, gold and platinum, based on a building's use of green design, construction, operation and maintenance solutions.

For the School of Law, we are seeking platinum status—the highest award by the council. Why? It's simple: It will be a game-changing development for the school and its students and alumni, and it will put the school at the forefront of a new era of growth and change in higher education.

There are important differences between the various LEED designations, but the unique, forward-thinking design of the building, coupled with a rising public awareness of the importance of sustainable buildings, make it a relatively easy goal to attain. If we achieve it, the law center will be one of only a handful of public buildings in the country to have the status—and one of the very first law schools anywhere to "go platinum." Not only is it a designation that we can talk about it in perpetuity, but in a world where environmental matters are a growing concern to people all across the globe, it’s also a step in the right direction. The Angelos Law Center forever will be known for its progressive stance on green—years, perhaps decades ahead of other institutions.

That, in essence, is UB's position: The law center can be a model for green construction and design. Let's take the lead.

To meet this goal, we need the help of our donors. We are currently raising $5 million in private funds, which will go toward the design and development of energy-saving equipment and processes, materials, and other important elements that are part of our application for LEED platinum designation.

You can be part of this historic effort. Every donation, in any amount, is significant to this project. Learn how you can give. If you have questions, contact: